99% Invisible

Discover how Friedrich Froebel's shift from architecture to education led to the creation of kindergarten and revolutionized early childhood learning. Explore his innovative 'gifts'—geometric toys that foster creativity and interaction. Delve into the significance of building blocks in education and their impact on famous architects like Frank Lloyd Wright. Uncover the intricate family dynamics within the Wright family and how they influenced designs and toys like Lincoln Logs, blending nostalgia with creativity in play.

Explore the challenge of finding mid-sized rental options in urban centers like Toronto. The discussion reveals the 'Missing Middle' phenomenon, highlighting how restrictive zoning laws have shaped housing availability. Historical biases and urban segregation come into play as they advocate for more diverse and equitable neighborhoods. Dive into the absurdities of zoning regulations and hear real stories from developers navigating these obstacles. The episode sheds light on the urgent need for reform in housing policy.

In this engaging conversation, Kurt Kolstad, a colleague of Roman Mars, dives into the fascinating world of trains. They uncover the allure and practicality of funiculars, examine the bizarre 'Crash at Crush' train collision spectacle, and explore urban challenges in train construction. The duo also highlights Japan's innovative earthquake safety measures and the unique Point and Call signaling method that enhances train operations. With humor and insight, this discussion showcases trains as both historical marvels and modern engineering feats.

Roman Mars, the charismatic host known for his insights into design and architecture, joins Griffin and David to discuss the film 'The Quick and the Dead.' They delve into the journey of Sharon Stone and the evolution of stardom in Hollywood. The conversation touches on how successful directors earn 'blank checks' for ambitious projects while highlighting quirky anecdotes about film culture, including a nod to Gene Hackman. Tune in for a mix of humor, film analysis, and reflections on the industry that are sure to entertain!

Delve into the challenges of pandemic data collection, highlighting the U.S.'s fragmented health system and reliance on historical methods. Explore the gaps in testing data transparency and the grassroots efforts of the COVID Tracking Project. Discover the need for improved public health data systems and the critique of bureaucratic failures during the crisis. The discussion also addresses the limitations of racial classifications in health metrics, advocating for a more inclusive approach that centers community involvement.

Shirley Wong, a talented podcast producer, joins Stephen Chen, son of renowned chef Joyce Chen, to share insights into the evolution of ethnic food aisles in American supermarkets. They discuss how Joyce's legacy changed perceptions of Asian cuisine, transforming it from niche to mainstream. The conversation dives into the marketing strategies that shaped these aisles and the impact of diversity on culinary representation. Wong and Chen also explore the experience of American products abroad, revealing the cultural implications of grocery placement.

Dylan Thuris, the host of the Atlas Obscura podcast, is joined by 91-year-old adventurer John Stewart, who retraced the steps of the Franklin Expedition in the Arctic. They dive into the mysterious fate of Sir John Franklin's ill-fated journey in 1845 and reflect on the enduring allure of exploration. Stewart shares his personal tales of adventure and contrasts past hardships with the comfort of modern cruises. They also spotlight the Unclaimed Baggage Center in Alabama, revealing the oddities found in lost luggage.

Erica Heilman, a radio producer and host of Rumble Strip, dives into Vermont's annual town meetings and their vital role in fostering community discussion. She highlights the importance of civic engagement and individual contributions in shaping local governance. The conversation touches on unique challenges, like addressing waste management and upholding civil liberties during crises. Through personal anecdotes, Heilman illustrates how these gatherings not only resolve community issues but also strengthen democratic values, emphasizing the transformative power of local storytelling.

Alexandra Lang, a design critic and writer for CityLab, dives into the invisible dangers urban architecture poses to migrating birds. She unpacks the staggering issue of bird-window collisions caused by reflective glass buildings, emphasizing the need for bird-safe design. Lang shares her transformative experience discovering urban birdlife in Brooklyn Bridge Park and discusses practical solutions homeowners can implement to protect these feathered friends. The conversation also explores how modern architecture can thoughtfully blend urban environments with wildlife.

Roman Mars, the charismatic host behind '99% Invisible', joins John and Hank Green for a delightful exploration of life's quirks. They ponder whimsical questions like why we don't have mouth Roombas and the first item ever bought online. The conversation glides through the complexities of urban design and the peculiarities of packing for travel. Mars shares insights into architecture and the significance of Twitter, blending humor and nostalgia throughout their banter, making it a rich and engaging experience.